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About the swine flu

I've received a lot of emails from my friends, concerned about us here in Mexico. To all of you, thank you so much for writting.

I had decided not to post until I was in better spirits, and was going to wait out the disease before posting again, but in light of so many of you being so kindly concerned, I think I should let you know how we are doing.

I, for one, am scared. Ok, today a little less scared than yesterday when I heard the news that the disease had reached our state. Turns out that it hadn't, but it was regular influenza. Today I did not send BH to school, and about half an hour ago the Health Secretary decreed the closing of ALL schools in the country in an effort to shut the doors to any form of transmision of the infection.

So far, of the hundreds of deaths related to influenza only a couple dozen (only! ha!) are confirmed to be from the new virus. Most of the deaths occured in Mexico City, where polution is so high that people have very poor lung health.

I re-read what I'd written so far and can't believe how composed I look (in my eyes, at least). I haven't been able to sleep, and since the doses of vaccines are few and we do not have Tamiflu (that REALLY makes me mad!) there's no other way for me to protect my family than the regular measures: wear a mask, wash our hands frecuently and avoid crowded places. Can you believe Mass has been suspended? well, at least in the Church, as in the buildings. We can still hear Mass through the radio, but that is little comfort. It is now that I would gather more comfort from the familiar, beloved services. But sacrifices must be made. At least I keep telling myself so.

None in my hometown have been infected, but already you can see the streets with half the people you usually see around shopping. It is almost one pm, and I've only had ONE customer so far. I'm wearing a mask already, and feeling like Pilates since I'm washing my hands so often! (bad joke, sorry). None in my family are ill, either, so we are counting our blessings.

You know what scares me most? it's not even the disease, although it does frighten the heck out of me, but I keep imagining what would happen if there was a panic attack. As in, run for your lives, buy all you can , steal what you can't and let no one stand in your way. I really hate global catastrophe movies! I REALLY REALLY LOATHE THEM!!!!!!

I'm looking forward to the day when I can write to you and tell you it is over. Till then, I remain your very frightened friend in Mexico

There are two confirmed cases near us so far... it is very frightening. My husband is in medicine and has said that the biggest problem is a lack of proper antibiotics. Most of us here in the US who have healthcare will be fine and it really just hits like the regular flu. But for those without access to the right medications, it can be so horrible and is life threatening. I pray that your family stays safe and healthy! And thank for posting even when you don't feel so great. It is a wonderful encouragement. God Bless.

CT, I'm sorry about all this that is happening too. I'm glad to hear that your family is safe and I will continue to pray for you/us all. Even though you cannot attend Mass right now, just take comfort in the Word that is already in your heart and continue to pray.